Does Walmart Support Israel? Examining Corporate Neutrality and Actions

Does walmart support isreal – Does Walmart support Israel? This question opens a fascinating exploration into the intricate dance of a global retail giant navigating the complex world of international relations. We’ll delve into Walmart’s public statements, its supply chain dynamics, and its engagement with the Israeli market, uncovering the layers of strategy and influence at play. Prepare to uncover how a company balances its business objectives with its role in a politically charged environment, revealing a story of choices, challenges, and the delicate art of maintaining a global presence.

From the sourcing of products to the echoes on social media, we will examine the multifaceted dimensions of Walmart’s involvement. We will see how Walmart’s policies on employee expression and its response to customer feedback shape its public persona. Through a detailed analysis of its actions, initiatives, and legal frameworks, we’ll try to get a better understanding of Walmart’s approach to the situation.

Table of Contents

Walmart’s Stance on International Relations

Navigating the intricate web of global politics is a delicate dance, especially for a multinational corporation like Walmart. The company’s approach to international relations is, unsurprisingly, multifaceted, balancing its business interests with the complexities of geopolitical realities. Understanding this stance requires a look at its official policies, past actions, and the inherent challenges of operating in diverse international environments.

Walmart’s General Policy Regarding Political Neutrality in International Affairs

Walmart generally adheres to a policy of political neutrality. The company’s primary focus is on its core business: providing goods and services to its customers while maintaining profitability. This translates into a reluctance to take explicit stances on specific political issues, particularly those that do not directly impact its operations. Walmart’s official communications often emphasize its commitment to respecting local laws and regulations in all the countries where it operates.Walmart’s approach is not about being apolitical; it’s about being strategically non-partisan.

This means that the company avoids directly endorsing political candidates or parties, and it generally refrains from making public statements on controversial geopolitical issues. This neutrality is intended to protect the company’s reputation and avoid alienating customers or governments in any of the numerous countries where it does business.

Examples of How Walmart Has Navigated Complex Geopolitical Situations in the Past

Walmart’s history provides examples of how the company has navigated challenging geopolitical landscapes. These situations highlight the tension between maintaining business operations and addressing complex issues.

Supply Chain Adjustments: When faced with trade disputes or sanctions, Walmart has often adjusted its supply chain. For example, during periods of increased trade tensions between the United States and China, Walmart diversified its sourcing to reduce reliance on specific countries. This allowed Walmart to continue providing products to its customers while mitigating risks associated with trade barriers.

This involved identifying new suppliers and establishing distribution networks in alternative locations.
Compliance with Sanctions: Walmart has consistently demonstrated its commitment to complying with international sanctions and trade restrictions. This involves rigorous due diligence to ensure that the company’s business activities do not violate any applicable laws or regulations. For instance, Walmart has been known to quickly adapt to changes in trade restrictions related to specific countries, immediately ceasing business activities in areas where it is no longer permissible.
Local Partnerships: Walmart frequently forms partnerships with local businesses and governments. These partnerships are essential for navigating complex regulatory environments and building relationships. In countries with unstable political situations, such as those experiencing civil unrest or changes in government, these relationships can be crucial for maintaining operations. They provide valuable insights into local dynamics and can help Walmart adapt to evolving conditions.

How Walmart’s International Business Operations Might Influence Its Approach to Sensitive Political Issues

Walmart’s vast international presence, with operations spanning numerous countries, inevitably shapes its approach to sensitive political issues. The company’s business model, heavily reliant on global supply chains and consumer markets, creates a complex set of considerations.

Economic Interdependence: Walmart’s economic ties to various countries create a degree of interdependence. The company is often hesitant to take actions that could jeopardize its relationships with governments or disrupt its supply chains. The potential economic consequences of such disruptions are significant, as they could impact both the company’s profitability and its ability to serve its customers.
Brand Reputation: In the modern era, brand reputation is a crucial asset. Walmart is highly conscious of the potential for negative publicity arising from its actions or statements. The company carefully considers how its decisions will be perceived by consumers, employees, and stakeholders worldwide. This leads to a cautious approach to political issues, as any perceived misstep could damage its brand image.
Lobbying and Advocacy: Walmart engages in lobbying and advocacy efforts to protect its business interests. These activities often involve working with governments to influence trade policies, regulations, and other issues that affect its operations. Walmart typically prioritizes issues directly related to its business, such as tax policy, labor laws, and trade agreements. However, it may also address broader issues that could have a significant impact on its global operations.

Walmart’s stance on international relations is a pragmatic balancing act. The company strives to maintain a neutral political posture to protect its business interests, while still complying with local laws and regulations.

Public Statements and Official Communications

Walmart, as a global corporation, navigates a complex web of international relations. Understanding its public stance on sensitive geopolitical issues, like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, requires careful examination of official communications. These statements offer insights into the company’s values, priorities, and how it chooses to engage with such matters. This section will delve into Walmart’s public pronouncements on the matter.Examining official statements provides a window into a company’s perspective.

It’s crucial to analyze these communications for their tone, language, and the specific words chosen. This process helps discern the underlying message and any potential implications of Walmart’s approach. We’ll also compare statements across different time periods, if available, to identify any shifts in perspective or emphasis.

Identifying Official Statements

The search for official statements involves a methodical approach. It includes scouring Walmart’s official website, press releases, investor relations documents, and any publicly available statements issued by company executives. This also includes checking reputable news sources that cover corporate announcements and international relations. This diligent research ensures a comprehensive understanding of Walmart’s public position.

Tone and Language Analysis

The tone and language used in official statements often reflect a company’s strategic approach. A neutral tone typically avoids taking sides, emphasizing operational aspects or humanitarian concerns. A more assertive tone, conversely, might express strong opinions or support for a particular viewpoint. Key words and phrases can reveal the company’s priorities and sensitivities.For example, a statement might focus on “providing support” or “ensuring the safety” of its employees or customers in a region.

Or, the language might highlight “economic development” or “respect for human rights.”

Key Word Identification, Does walmart support isreal

Identifying key words is a crucial step in understanding the nuances of Walmart’s statements. This involves looking for frequently used terms, words with strong emotional connotations, and phrases that reveal the company’s core values. This list helps to build a more detailed understanding.Some potential key words to look for in statements related to international conflicts include:

Neutrality
Humanitarian aid
Safety
Economic impact
Stability
Peace
Dialogue
Respect
Community

Comparative Analysis Table

A comparative table allows for a structured comparison of statements across different time periods. This enables a clear view of any changes in the company’s approach. The table will compare the main themes, key phrases, and overall tone.
Example Table: (Please note that the content of this table is purely illustrative, as specific data on Walmart’s statements is unavailable for the purpose of this exercise.

It is a model.)

Time Period	Main Theme	Key Phrases	Overall Tone
2014 (Hypothetical)	Focus on employee safety	“Ensuring the safety of our associates,” “Operational adjustments,” “Monitoring the situation”	Cautious and reactive
2018 (Hypothetical)	Emphasis on community support	“Supporting local communities,” “Economic stability,” “Providing essential goods”	Proactive and community-focused
2023 (Hypothetical)	Focus on humanitarian efforts	“Providing aid,” “Supporting relief efforts,” “Partnering with organizations”	Humanitarian and supportive

This table structure provides a clear framework for analyzing any official statements issued by Walmart regarding Israel or the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By systematically comparing statements across different periods, it is possible to observe any evolution in the company’s approach and priorities.

Product Sourcing and Supply Chain Considerations

Navigating the complexities of international trade, especially in politically sensitive regions, is a significant undertaking for a global retailer like Walmart. Their sourcing decisions and supply chain strategies reflect a careful balancing act of economic considerations, ethical responsibilities, and the need to maintain operational efficiency. This section delves into how Walmart sources products from and sells products in Israel, explores potential challenges, and examines how they manage their supply chain in complex environments.

Walmart’s Trade with Israel: Sourcing and Sales

Walmart’s direct sourcing from Israeli suppliers, as well as the sale of products within Israel, constitutes a portion of its global operations. The company’s strategy involves procuring a variety of goods, potentially including technology components, agricultural products, and consumer goods, directly from Israeli manufacturers or distributors. Products are also sold in Israel through its various brands or partnerships, adapting to local consumer preferences and market dynamics.

Supply Chain Challenges and Management

Walmart faces multifaceted challenges when managing its supply chain in regions with political complexities. The fluctuating geopolitical landscape can lead to disruptions, impacting the availability of goods and increasing transportation costs. Compliance with international regulations, including those related to trade restrictions and sanctions, is another crucial consideration. Furthermore, Walmart actively monitors and manages reputational risks associated with its sourcing practices.

This includes ensuring fair labor standards, ethical sourcing, and environmental sustainability throughout its supply chain.

Product Categories Potentially Affected by Trade Relations

Walmart’s trade relations with Israel could potentially impact a diverse range of product categories. The following list details some key areas where this interaction is most pronounced:

Technology and Electronics: Israeli companies are prominent in the tech sector. Components and finished products sourced from or sold in Israel may include advanced technologies and consumer electronics.
Agricultural Products: The agricultural sector in Israel is advanced, producing a variety of fruits, vegetables, and processed foods that could be sourced by Walmart.
Consumer Goods: A wide array of consumer goods, from apparel to household items, might be manufactured or distributed by Israeli companies, presenting opportunities for Walmart’s sourcing and sales operations.
Specialty Products: Israeli innovation extends to areas such as medical devices and security technologies. Walmart could be involved in sourcing or selling these specialty products.

Managing Complexities: An Illustrative Example

Consider the hypothetical scenario of a specific agricultural product, such as avocados, sourced from Israel. The supply chain would involve Israeli farmers, processing facilities, transportation logistics, and potentially, intermediaries. Walmart would need to meticulously manage various factors:

Sourcing Agreements: Establishing clear contracts with suppliers to ensure product quality, ethical sourcing practices, and compliance with all applicable regulations.
Logistics and Transportation: Arranging efficient and cost-effective transportation, including shipping, customs clearance, and warehousing. This must account for potential delays or disruptions caused by political instability.
Risk Management: Implementing robust risk management strategies to mitigate potential disruptions, such as having multiple suppliers, diversifying transportation routes, and building buffer stocks.
Compliance: Adhering to all relevant international trade laws, regulations, and any potential sanctions that may be in place.

“Supply chain resilience is paramount. This includes having alternative sourcing options and contingency plans to navigate unexpected challenges.”

Actions and Initiatives (Beyond Statements)

Beyond the carefully crafted public pronouncements, the true measure of a company’s stance often lies in its actions. Walmart’s involvement, or lack thereof, in Israel and related causes provides a more tangible understanding of its operational principles. This section dives into the specifics of Walmart’s community engagement, any potential impacts from the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, and a comparative analysis with its retail contemporaries.

Philanthropic Activities and Community Initiatives

Examining Walmart’s direct contributions offers insight into its commitment to the region. While pinpointing specific, publicly available details can be challenging, a lack of overt initiatives doesn’t necessarily equate to inactivity. The complexity of international relations often dictates discretion.

Community Involvement: Walmart often supports local communities through various programs. This might include donations to local charities, sponsoring community events, or providing resources for educational initiatives. The specifics of such actions in Israel, or related to Israeli causes, are generally not widely publicized.
Disaster Relief: Walmart has a history of responding to natural disasters and humanitarian crises globally. While not specific to Israel, the company’s established infrastructure could potentially be leveraged to provide aid in times of need, if the situation warrants it. The efficiency of their response, however, depends on various factors, including the nature of the crisis and the existing logistical capabilities in the area.
Indirect Support: Walmart’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as promoting sustainable sourcing and ethical labor practices, could indirectly benefit Israeli businesses or communities involved in Walmart’s supply chain. However, tracing the specific impact is complex and requires detailed analysis.

Boycotts, Divestments, and Sanctions (BDS) Related Activities

The BDS movement poses a significant challenge for companies operating in regions with geopolitical sensitivities. The potential impact on Walmart, a global retail giant, warrants consideration.

The core tenet of the BDS movement is to pressure Israel to comply with international law by promoting boycotts, divestments, and sanctions.

Public Awareness: Walmart has been a target of the BDS movement. Activists may organize boycotts, protests, and campaigns to raise awareness about Walmart’s perceived involvement with Israel. These activities aim to influence public opinion and potentially damage Walmart’s brand reputation.
Supply Chain Considerations: The BDS movement encourages boycotting goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied territories. Walmart, like other retailers, needs to carefully monitor its supply chain to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and to mitigate potential reputational risks. This involves verifying the origin of products and potentially adjusting sourcing strategies.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Depending on the jurisdiction, Walmart might face legal or regulatory challenges related to the BDS movement. Some states in the United States, for example, have enacted laws that require companies to certify that they do not participate in boycotts of Israel. Compliance with these laws is essential for Walmart’s operations.
Reputational Risk Management: Walmart’s response to the BDS movement is crucial for maintaining its brand image. The company needs to balance its business interests with its commitment to social responsibility and its sensitivity to the political environment. This requires careful communication strategies and a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement.

Comparison with Other Major Retailers

Comparing Walmart’s actions with those of its competitors offers a broader perspective. The responses of other major retailers provide valuable insights into the industry-wide approach to these complex issues.

Similar Challenges: Other major retailers, such as Target, Amazon, and Costco, also operate in environments with similar geopolitical challenges. They too face scrutiny from various stakeholders and must navigate the complexities of international relations.
Varied Responses: Different retailers may adopt different strategies. Some may publicly support Israel or Israeli causes, while others may adopt a more neutral stance to avoid alienating any customer segments. The specific responses depend on the company’s values, its target market, and its overall business strategy.
Supply Chain Transparency: Increased emphasis on supply chain transparency is a common trend among major retailers. This allows companies to demonstrate their commitment to ethical sourcing and to mitigate potential risks related to human rights, labor practices, and political controversies.
Adaptation and Evolution: The strategies employed by major retailers are constantly evolving in response to changing circumstances. Companies need to remain flexible and adaptable to address new challenges and opportunities. This includes monitoring public opinion, engaging with stakeholders, and adjusting their business practices as needed.

Customer Perception and Social Media Presence

Walmart’s social media presence and the perceptions of its customers significantly influence its operational decisions, especially concerning sensitive geopolitical issues. The company’s online channels serve as both a platform for disseminating information and a mirror reflecting public sentiment. Understanding how Walmart navigates these waters is crucial.

Social Media Channels’ Reactions

Walmart’s official social media accounts, including those on platforms like Facebook, Twitter (now X), and Instagram, generally adopt a cautious approach to discussions about international conflicts. Direct statements about specific political stances, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, are rare. Instead, Walmart often focuses on broader themes of community support, humanitarian efforts (where applicable and usually indirectly related), and promoting its core values of inclusivity and respect.

This strategy aims to avoid alienating any segment of its diverse customer base.

Customer Base Influence

Walmart’s customer base is incredibly diverse, spanning various demographics, political affiliations, and viewpoints. This diversity presents a unique challenge: any decision, or even a perceived stance, on a contentious issue like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could alienate a significant portion of its shoppers. The company is, therefore, incentivized to remain neutral or, at the very least, carefully consider the potential repercussions of any public statements.

Walmart understands the power of the consumer.

Examples of Customer Feedback

Customer feedback, both positive and negative, regarding Walmart’s association (or lack thereof) with Israel surfaces on various online platforms. This feedback ranges from direct comments on social media posts to reviews on products potentially linked to Israeli companies.

Positive Feedback: Some customers express appreciation for Walmart’s perceived neutrality, seeing it as a sign of respect for all customers. Others might commend the company for offering products from various sources, reflecting a diverse global marketplace.
Negative Feedback: Conversely, some customers may criticize Walmart for carrying products they believe are linked to Israeli companies, citing ethical or political concerns. Boycott campaigns, both organized and informal, have sometimes targeted Walmart based on these perceptions.

Summary of Social Media Viewpoints

The following blockquote encapsulates the range of opinions typically found on social media platforms concerning Walmart and its relationship to Israel:

“Walmart should remain neutral and focus on its business.”
“I appreciate Walmart offering products from various countries, including those with different political climates.”
“I will boycott Walmart if they support Israel.”
“Walmart needs to be more transparent about its supply chain and where its products originate.”
“I support Walmart’s right to do business with whoever they choose.”

Employee Relations and Internal Policies: Does Walmart Support Isreal

Navigating the complexities of employee relations and internal policies within a global corporation like Walmart requires a delicate balance. This is especially true when it comes to politically sensitive topics, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Understanding how Walmart manages employee expression, handles internal discussions, and fosters diversity and inclusion in this context is crucial.

Internal Policies on Employee Expression Regarding Political Topics

Walmart likely has a comprehensive set of internal policies governing employee conduct, including guidelines on expressing personal opinions in the workplace and on social media. These policies typically aim to protect the company’s reputation, ensure a respectful work environment, and comply with legal requirements. While these policies might not specifically mention Israel or any other particular political issue, they generally cover broader principles of professional behavior.For instance, an employee’s social media posts could potentially violate company policy if they:

Contain hate speech or discriminatory language.
Reveal confidential company information.
Damage the company’s reputation.

These policies often encourage employees to engage in respectful dialogue, avoid personal attacks, and refrain from using company resources for political activism. The specific wording and enforcement of these policies can vary depending on local laws and cultural norms.

Instances of Employee Activism or Internal Discussions Related to Walmart’s Stance on Israel

While concrete, publicly available examples of widespread employee activism specifically targeting Walmart’s stance on Israel might be limited, it is highly probable that internal discussions and debates have occurred. Employees, representing diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, likely hold varied opinions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its implications.These discussions could take place in various forums, such as:

Informal conversations between colleagues.
Employee resource groups focused on specific cultural or religious identities.
Internal company surveys or feedback mechanisms.

The nature of these discussions would depend on the company culture, the level of employee engagement, and the specific context of the situation. Some employees might express support for Israel, while others might voice criticism of its policies. The company’s response to such discussions would likely involve maintaining a neutral stance, promoting respectful dialogue, and ensuring that all employees feel safe and respected.

Diversity and Inclusion Programs That May Touch on This Issue

Walmart, like many large corporations, likely has diversity and inclusion programs designed to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all employees. These programs may indirectly touch upon the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly through:

Educational initiatives that promote understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
Employee resource groups for Jewish or Palestinian employees, providing a space for them to connect and share their experiences.
Training sessions on unconscious bias and inclusive communication.

These programs aim to foster a sense of belonging for all employees, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. They can also provide a platform for employees to discuss sensitive topics in a respectful and constructive manner. However, it’s important to note that the scope and content of these programs may vary depending on the company’s priorities and the specific needs of its employees.

Hypothetical Internal Memo on the Topic

Imagine an internal memo from Walmart’s Human Resources department. Subject: Guidelines on Workplace Conduct and Expression Regarding Sensitive TopicsDate: October 26, 2024 To: All Employees From: Human Resources DepartmentDear Associates,This memo serves as a reminder of our company’s commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace environment. We encourage open communication and the free exchange of ideas, but it’s crucial to ensure that all interactions remain professional and respectful.We recognize that employees may hold diverse viewpoints on a wide range of topics, including international affairs.

When discussing these topics in the workplace or on company-related platforms, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Respectful Dialogue: Engage in conversations with colleagues in a respectful and constructive manner. Avoid personal attacks, inflammatory language, or any form of harassment.
Focus on Facts: Base your opinions on credible sources of information. Avoid spreading misinformation or unsubstantiated claims.
Maintain Professionalism: Remember that you represent Walmart, and your conduct should reflect our company’s values. Avoid expressing opinions that could damage our reputation or violate our Code of Conduct.
Social Media Guidelines: When posting on social media, be mindful of your online presence. Avoid posting content that is offensive, discriminatory, or that could be perceived as representing Walmart’s official position on a particular issue.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding these guidelines, please contact your supervisor or the Human Resources department. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive work environment for all.Sincerely,Human Resources DepartmentThe memo, in essence, would provide a framework for employees to navigate sensitive discussions, emphasizing respect, professionalism, and adherence to company policies. The tone is formal but friendly, aiming to remind employees of their responsibilities while encouraging open communication within established boundaries.

The memo’s content is intentionally broad, avoiding specific references to any particular conflict to maintain neutrality and ensure its applicability to a wide range of potentially sensitive issues.

Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

Navigating the complex landscape of international business, particularly in politically sensitive regions, demands a keen understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks. Walmart’s operations, including its stance on Israel, are undoubtedly shaped by a web of laws and agreements that span both the United States and the international community. Compliance isn’t merely a suggestion; it’s the bedrock upon which the company’s global strategy is built.

Relevant Laws and Regulations

The interplay of laws and regulations affecting Walmart’s business dealings with Israel is extensive and multifaceted. Understanding these is crucial for appreciating the legal environment in which Walmart operates.

U.S. Laws and Regulations: Several U.S. laws impact businesses operating internationally. The Export Administration Regulations (EAR), administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) within the Department of Commerce, control the export and re-export of goods and technologies. These regulations could affect the types of products Walmart can source from or sell to Israel. The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) prohibits U.S.

companies from bribing foreign officials to obtain or retain business. Walmart must ensure its operations in Israel, and any related dealings, comply with the FCPA. The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on U.S. foreign policy and national security goals. These sanctions could potentially restrict Walmart’s business activities with certain individuals, entities, or regions associated with Israel, depending on the specifics of the sanctions.
International Laws and Regulations: Beyond U.S. laws, international regulations also play a significant role. World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements, to which both the U.S. and Israel are signatories, establish rules for international trade. These agreements promote fair trade practices and can impact Walmart’s import and export activities.

International human rights laws, while not always directly enforceable against corporations, can influence Walmart’s sourcing decisions. The company may face scrutiny if its supply chain involves labor practices that violate human rights standards.
Israeli Laws and Regulations: Walmart must comply with Israeli laws related to business operations, including labor laws, consumer protection laws, and import/export regulations. These laws are critical for establishing and maintaining a presence in the country.

Potential Legal Challenges

Walmart’s business dealings with Israel could potentially face several legal challenges. These challenges can arise from various sources and could have significant consequences.

Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movement: The BDS movement advocates for boycotts, divestment, and sanctions against Israel. Walmart could face legal challenges from entities supporting the BDS movement, alleging that its business dealings with Israel violate international law or ethical standards. Conversely, Walmart could face legal challenges from groups opposing the BDS movement if it were perceived to be supporting the movement in any way.
Antitrust Laws: If Walmart’s activities in Israel are perceived to stifle competition or create a monopoly, it could face antitrust lawsuits. These laws are designed to protect fair competition in the marketplace.
Product Safety and Liability: Walmart is responsible for ensuring the safety of the products it sells. Legal challenges could arise if products sourced from or sold in Israel are found to be defective or unsafe, leading to product liability lawsuits.
Labor Disputes: Walmart could face lawsuits related to labor practices, such as wage disputes, unfair labor practices, or workplace safety violations, either in its own operations or within its supply chain in Israel.

Impact of International Trade Agreements

International trade agreements play a pivotal role in shaping Walmart’s operations in the region. These agreements influence trade practices, market access, and overall business strategy.

Free Trade Agreements: The United States has free trade agreements (FTAs) with Israel. These agreements reduce tariffs and other trade barriers, making it easier and more cost-effective for Walmart to import goods from Israel. For example, reduced tariffs on certain products, such as electronics or agricultural goods, could increase Walmart’s sourcing from Israeli suppliers.
WTO Agreements: As a member of the WTO, both the U.S. and Israel are bound by its rules. These rules promote fair trade practices and prevent discriminatory trade policies. Walmart benefits from the stability and predictability that the WTO framework provides.
Supply Chain Considerations: International trade agreements impact Walmart’s supply chain management. The agreements can influence where Walmart chooses to source products, based on factors such as tariff rates, import regulations, and ease of doing business.
Example: If the U.S. and Israel modify their FTA, perhaps to include new product categories or further reduce tariffs, Walmart could adjust its sourcing strategy to take advantage of these changes. If tariffs on Israeli-made textiles were reduced, Walmart might increase its purchases from Israeli textile manufacturers.